Worcester City Manager Says DOJ Closure Is ‘Not Vindication,’ Defends Police Accountability Efforts

By Rylie Mitchell –

WORCESTER, Mass. — Worcester City Manager Eric D. Batista is pushing back against criticism surrounding the city’s announcement that the U.S. Department of Justice has closed its investigation into the Worcester Police Department without further action.

In a statement, Batista acknowledged that the DOJ’s decision has generated a strong reaction across Worcester and defended his administration’s decision to publicly announce the development.

“My Administration felt it necessary to share such an important update with the community when we were notified by the DOJ,” Batista said. “It’s unfortunate that our announcement has been mischaracterized, which distracts from the collective improvements and progress made since the 2024 report was released.”

Batista said the findings contained in the 2024 report were “both shocking and unacceptable” and acknowledged the lasting impact on the community and those affected by the conduct described in the report.

He also addressed the impact the report had on Worcester police officers, saying the perception of their dedication to protecting public safety was damaged.

At the same time, Batista said the report pushed the city to strengthen its policies and accountability systems.

According to Batista, the DOJ informed Worcester that the matter was being closed with no further action, based in part on a lack of current allegations concerning the conduct that was the subject of the original investigation.

But Batista made a significant distinction about what that decision means.

“The municipality’s announcement did not state that the DOJ retracted its findings, nor did it imply that the 2024 allegations were unfounded,” Batista said. “To state otherwise only serves to further divide us.”

Batista also strongly rejected suggestions that he is aligned with efforts to dismantle civil rights protections.

“To imply that I am aligned with any dismantling of civil rights protections is a gross distortion of the truth,” Batista said.

The city manager pointed to accountability initiatives implemented by his administration, including updated policies, training materials, body-worn cameras and strengthened use-of-force review.

Batista characterized the DOJ’s decision as recognition of progress, while stopping short of portraying it as an exoneration of the city or Police Department.

“The closure of the DOJ investigation is not vindication, but it does reflect our progress and should be recognized,” Batista said.

He also made clear that the end of the federal investigation will not end Worcester’s efforts to address accountability and public trust.

Batista said those improvement efforts will continue for years and that he has been meeting with community members to discuss concerns, challenges and possible solutions.

“It is up to us to follow through on corrective action, and I look forward to discussing that further at Tuesday’s City Council meeting,” Batista said.